Ceasefire Deal Details Reveal Plans for Multinational Monitoring Force
A recently revealed clause within the Gaza ceasefire agreement outlines the formation of a task force comprised of representatives from the US, Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, and other nations, signaling a potential mechanism for monitoring the deal’s implementation and reporting any violations. This development comes as the US is repositioning up to 200 troops already stationed in the Middle East to support and coordinate this prospective multinational force.
The agreement, a significant diplomatic breakthrough spearheaded by former President Trump, aims to end the conflict that began after Hamas‘s october 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths, mostly civilians, and the abduction of 251 hostages. Israel’s subsequent military campaign in Gaza has, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, lead to the deaths of over 67,000 Palestinians, predominantly civilians, including more than 18,000 children, and triggered a severe humanitarian crisis.
US officials indicate the intention is to build an “International Stabilisation force” following the completion of the hostage and prisoner exchange, though this remains subject to agreement between all parties. The initial phase of the plan benefited from converging pressures: domestic pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, with polls indicating widespread Israeli support for a deal; and pressure on Hamas from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, alongside the urgent needs of the Gazan population. Hamas reportedly viewed holding hostages as increasingly detrimental, providing Israel justification to continue military operations.
the future trajectory of the agreement remains uncertain. Continued progress hinges on sustained engagement from the Trump administration, as both Israel and Hamas possess incentives to potentially delay the process. While current momentum is notable, ample challenges persist.
